Top 3 Headlines
Whale Shark season takes centre stage in Qatar’s summer attractions
Qatar’s Whale Shark Season is now underway, offering a rare chance to witness one of the world’s largest gatherings of these gentle giants. Running from 20 June to 19 September, up to 300 whale sharks can be observed off the coast of northern Qatar aboard a high-speed catamaran, guided by marine biologists.
The eco-conscious tours depart from Al Ruwais Port and provide educational insight into whale shark behaviour and conservation. Meanwhile, the beloved Qatar Toy Festival returns from 6 July 6 to 4 August at DECC, featuring over 40 global toy brands, stage shows, workshops, and character meet-and-greets.
‘Terhal’ comes back to Diriyah this August
The Saudi Ministry of Culture will present the theatrical show Terhal from 4-25 August, at the Mayadeen Venue in Diriyah. Blending cutting-edge lighting and visuals, the performance follows a young Saudi man’s journey across the Kingdom as he reconnects with his cultural roots.
Inspired by Saudi landscapes, the show features local talents alongside international performers. Returning after its successful 2023 debut, Terhal continues to celebrate Saudi heritage through performing arts, traditional crafts, attire, and cuisine, offering audiences a dynamic cultural experience.
Louvre Abu Dhabi displaying Filipino masterpiece for a year
Louvre Abu Dhabi has unveiled Una Bulaqueña by celebrated Filipino artist Juan Luna, marking its first partnership with the National Museum of the Philippines. On loan until June 2026, the painting, considered a National Cultural Treasure, portrays a Filipina woman from Bulacan and symbolises national pride during Spanish colonial rule.
Displayed alongside works by Renoir and Manet, it brings Southeast Asian art into global focus. Officials from both countries celebrated the cultural milestone, highlighting its role in deepening UAE-Philippines ties and promoting shared understanding through art.
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Noteworthy:
- A new PIF-backed company will lead the development of Expo 2030 Riyadh into a global model for sustainable tourism and urban innovation. It will cover 6 million sqm making it one of the biggest globally.
- AlUla is leveraging SHIMM (Saudi Hybrid International Model for Mapping) technology to enhance astro-tourism and boost its credentials as a global stargazing destination.
- Diriyah House has opened in London as a cultural showcase, immersing visitors in Saudi Arabia’s history, heritage, and future aspirations through interactive exhibits.
- The UAE has formed a national Yoga Committee to standardise and regulate yoga practices across over 200 nationalities, supporting its wellness sector and cultural inclusion.
- Swiss sailor Alan Roura has partnered with AMAALA to represent Saudi interests in The Ocean Race Europe 2025, linking elite sports with sustainable tourism branding.
- Diriyah Art Futures has been named one of the world’s most beautiful museums in 2025, spotlighting Saudi Arabia’s fusion of contemporary design and cultural preservation.
- Small Worlds Expo City Dubai has launched the “RESPECT!” initiative to promote empathy, diversity and inclusion through miniature exhibits and storytelling of the region’s construction industry.
- The $4 billion Red Sea bridge connecting Egypt and Saudi Arabia is progressing, with the megaproject promising to transform regional transport and tourism dynamics.
- Aroya Cruises has made its maiden call to Istanbul, expanding the Saudi cruise line’s Mediterranean footprint and signalling strong growth in regional cruise tourism.
- Morocco’s National Tourism Office has partnered with Wego to attract more tourists from the MENA region this summer through tailored digital campaigns.
